Howtoons

"Geeks aren't born, they're made... and here's the instruction manual." —Wired Magazine



Fun How-To, DIY projects and activities to teach kids STEM & STEAM fundamentals and spark curiosity through play!


Unlock the power of hands-on learning with Howtoons—an award-winning, comic-style guide that blends storytelling, science, and engineering—by Saul Griffith, PhD (MacArthur Genius Grant recipient, founder and chief scientist at Otherlab), New York Times bestselling artist Nick Dragotta (Absolute Batman, East of West), and toy designer Ingrid Dragotta. Perfect for homeschooling families, Montessori-inspired classrooms, and STEM/STEAM-focused classrooms, this book features 50+ exciting, kid-tested projects that transform everyday household items into engaging learning adventures.


Join siblings Celine and Tucker as they're challenged to “make something other than trouble”—sparking a journey of discovery through play-based learning, critical thinking, and creativity. Each project is packed with real-life science and engineering principles designed to inspire gifted learners and curious minds alike.


Whether you're teaching physics through paper rockets, exploring kinetic energy with DIY toys, or promoting independent thinking through tinkering, Howtoons is your go-to resource for turning trash into tools and ideas into action.


This unique collection of projects empowers children to:


Build and invent using recycled and household materials
Understand real engineering and science principles
Explore STEAM learning through comics, art, and play
Foster independence, problem-solving, and creative thinking
Engage in project-based learning ideal for co-ops and family units

Why trust Howtoons?

Author Dr. Saul Griffith is a globally recognized engineer, inventor, and STEAM education advocate. He holds a Ph.D. from MIT in materials science and information theory, and has led cutting-edge research for NASA, DARPA, ARPA-E, and the National Science Foundation. He is also the founder of Rewiring America, a nonprofit focused on climate solutions through electrification and education. His companies—including Instructables.com, Makani Power, and Otherlab—reflect a lifelong commitment to innovation and sustainability.


Select praise for Howtoons:


“This is a great addition to STEM collections, maker spaces, and elementary- through middle-school graphic-novel collections.” —Booklist


"Fine, fabulous stuff" —School Library Journal


"...perfectly tuned to inspire creativity as well as promote good work habits in budding inventors and mechanical engineers alike." —Kirkus Review


"Geeks aren't born, they're made... and here's the instruction manual." —Wired Magazine